Patent application title: INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE USING COMBUSTIBLE GASES PRODUCED BY THE ELECTROLYSIS OF WATER, AND VEHICLE COMPRISING SAME

Abstract:

An engine system comprising an electrolysis apparatus interconnected to an
internal combustion engine. The electrolysis apparatus cleaves water into
a mixture of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas. The mixture of hydrogen gas and
oxygen gas is input into, and fuels, the internal combustion engine. A
vehicle comprising the engine system.

Claims:

1. An engine system, comprising:(a) an electrolysis apparatus
comprising:an enclosure comprising a bottom, a plurality of walls
attached to said bottom and having distal ends extending upwardly
therefrom, and a top assembly removeably attached to each of the distal
ends of said plurality of walls, wherein said bottom, plurality of walls,
and top define an enclosed space;a first electrode disposed within said
enclosed space;a second electrode disposed within said enclosed space;at
least one electromagnetic energy radiator disposed within said enclosed
space;an oscillator disposed external to said enclosure, wherein said
oscillator is interconnected to said electromagnetic energy radiator;a
gas outlet in communication with and extending outwardly from said
enclosure; and(b) an internal combustion engine, comprising:one or more
combustion chambers;one or more pistons, wherein each of said one or more
pistons is moveably disposed in a different one of said one or more
combustion chambers;a crankshaft operatively coupled to each of said one
or more pistons;a fuel intake manifold interconnected with said of said
plurality of combustion cylinders;a fuel input assembly interconnected
with said fuel intake manifold;a conduit interconnecting said gas outlet
and said fuel input assembly;a first electrical power system operatively
coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said first electrical power system is
interconnected with said oscillator;a second electrical power system
operatively coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said second electrical
power system is interconnected with said first electrode such that said
first electrode comprises a cathode, and wherein said second electrical
power system is interconnected with said second electrode such that said
second electrode comprises an anode.

2. The engine system of claim 1, wherein said first electrode is formed
from a metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, tin, iron,
lead, and combinations thereof.

3. The engine system of claim 1, wherein said first electrode comprises
Nickel (III) oxide-hydroxide.

4. The engine system of claim 3, wherein said second electrode is formed
from a metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, tin, iron,
lead, and combinations thereof.

5. The engine system of claim 4, wherein said second electrode further
comprises Nickel (III) oxide-hydroxide.

6. The engine system of claim 1, further comprising:a water input port
interconnected to a water source and extending through said enclosure;
anda float valve disposed within said enclosure, wherein said float valve
assembly is in fluid communication with said water input port.

7. The engine system of claim 1, wherein said electrolysis apparatus
comprises:(M) electromagnetic energy radiators, wherein (M) is greater
than or equal to 2;(M) oscillators;wherein the (m)th electromagnetic
energy radiator is interconnected with the (m)th oscillator, wherein (m)
is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (M).

8. The engine system of claim 7, wherein (M) is 6.

9. A vehicle, comprising:(a) an electrolysis apparatus comprising:an
enclosure comprising a bottom, a plurality of walls attached to said
bottom and having distal ends extending upwardly therefrom, and a top
assembly removeably attached to each of the distal ends of said plurality
of walls, wherein said bottom, plurality of walls, and top define an
enclosed space;a first electrode disposed within said enclosed space;a
second electrode disposed within said enclosed space;at least one
electromagnetic energy radiator disposed within said enclosed space;a
power source disposed external to said enclosure, wherein said power
source is interconnected with said first electrode such that said first
electrode comprises a cathode, and wherein said power source is
interconnected with said second electrode such that said second electrode
comprises an anode;an oscillator disposed external to said enclosure,
wherein said oscillator is interconnected to said electromagnetic energy
radiator;a gas outlet in communication with and extending outwardly from
said enclosure; and(b) an internal combustion engine, comprising:one or
more combustion chambers;one or more pistons, wherein each of said one or
more pistons is moveably disposed in a different one of said one or more
combustion chambers;a crankshaft operatively coupled to each of said one
or more pistons;a fuel intake manifold interconnected with said of said
plurality of combustion cylinders;a fuel input assembly interconnected
with said fuel intake manifold;a first fuel conduit interconnecting said
gas outlet and said fuel input assembly;a first electrical power system
operatively coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said first electrical
power system is interconnected with said oscillator;a second electrical
power system operatively coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said second
electrical power system is interconnected with said first electrode such
that said first electrode comprises a cathode, and wherein said second
electrical power system is interconnected with said second electrode such
that said second electrode comprises an anode.(c) a plurality of
wheels;(d) a transmission operatively coupled to said crankshaft and to
one or more of said plurality of wheels.

10. The vehicle of claim 9, wherein said first electrode is formed from a
metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, tin, iron, lead, and
combinations thereof.

12. The vehicle of claim 26, wherein said second electrode is formed from
a metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, tin, iron, lead,
and combinations thereof.

13. The vehicle of claim 12, wherein said second electrode further
comprises Nickel (III) oxide-hydroxide.

14. The vehicle of claim 9, further comprising:a water input port
interconnected to a water source and extending through said enclosure;
anda float valve disposed within said enclosure, wherein said float valve
assembly is in fluid communication with said water input port.

15. The vehicle of claim 9, wherein said electrolysis apparatus
comprises:(M) electromagnetic energy radiators, wherein (M) is greater
than or equal to 2;(M) oscillators;wherein the (m)th electromagnetic
energy radiator is interconnected with the (m)th oscillator, wherein (m)
is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (M).

16. The vehicle system of claim 15, wherein (M) is 6.

17. The vehicle of claim 9, further comprising:a fuel tank;a mixture of
liquid hydrocarbon compounds disposed in said fuel tank;wherein said fuel
input assembly further comprises:an air conduit;a hydrocarbon fuel jet
extending into said air conduit;a float chamber interconnected to said
fuel jet;a second fuel conduit interconnecting fuel tank and said float
chamber.

18. The vehicle of claim 17, further comprising:a fuel pump, wherein said
fuel pump is interconnected with said second conduit.

19. A vehicle, comprising:(a) an electrolysis apparatus comprising:an
enclosure comprising a bottom, a plurality of walls attached to said
bottom and having distal ends extending upwardly therefrom, and a top
assembly removeably attached to each of the distal ends of said plurality
of walls, wherein said bottom, plurality of walls, and top define an
enclosed space;a first electrode disposed within said enclosed space;a
second electrode disposed within said enclosed space;at least one
electromagnetic energy radiator disposed within said enclosed space;a
power source disposed external to said enclosure, wherein said power
source is interconnected with said first electrode such that said first
electrode comprises a cathode, and wherein said power source is
interconnected with said second electrode such that said second electrode
comprises an anode;an oscillator disposed external to said enclosure,
wherein said oscillator is interconnected to said electromagnetic energy
radiator;a gas outlet in communication with and extending outwardly from
said enclosure; and(b) an internal combustion engine, comprising:one or
more combustion chambers;one or more pistons, wherein each of said one or
more pistons is moveably disposed in a different one of said one or more
combustion chambers;a crankshaft operatively coupled to each of said one
or more pistons;a fuel intake manifold interconnected with said of said
plurality of combustion cylinders;a fuel input assembly interconnected
with said fuel intake manifold;a first conduit interconnecting said gas
outlet and said fuel input assembly;a first electrical power system
operatively coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said first electrical
power system is interconnected with said oscillator;a second electrical
power system operatively coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said second
electrical power system is interconnected with said first electrode such
that said first electrode comprises a cathode, and wherein said second
electrical power system is interconnected with said second electrode such
that said second electrode comprises an anode.(c) a plurality of
wheels;(d) a first transmission operatively coupled to said crankshaft
and to one or more of said plurality of wheels;(e) an electric motor;(f)
a battery pack interconnected to said first electrical system(g) a second
transmission operatively coupled to said electric motor and to one or
more of said plurality of wheels.

20. The vehicle of claim 19, wherein said first electrode is formed from a
metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, tin, iron, lead, and
combinations thereof.

21. The vehicle of claim 20, wherein said second electrode is formed from
a metal selected from the group consisting of nickel, tin, iron, lead,
and combinations thereof.

22. The vehicle of claim 19, further comprising:a water input port
interconnected to a water source and extending through said enclosure;
anda float valve disposed within said enclosure, wherein said float valve
assembly is in fluid communication with said water input port.

23. The vehicle of claim 19, wherein said electrolysis apparatus
comprises:(M) electromagnetic energy radiators, wherein (M) is greater
than or equal to 2;(M) oscillators;wherein the (m)th electromagnetic
energy radiator is interconnected with the (m)th oscillator, wherein (m)
is greater than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to (M).

24. The vehicle of claim 19, further comprising:a fuel tank;a mixture of
liquid hydrocarbon compounds disposed in said fuel tank;wherein said fuel
input assembly further comprises:an air conduit;a hydrocarbon fuel jet
extending into said air conduit;a float chamber interconnected to said
fuel jet;a second fuel conduit interconnecting fuel tank and said float
chamber.

25. The vehicle of claim 24, further comprising:a fuel pump, wherein said
fuel pump is interconnected with said second conduit.

Description:

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001]The invention is directed to an internal combustion engine using
combustible gases produced by the electrolysis of water, and a vehicle
comprising same.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002]Modern societies are critically dependent on energy. All aspects of
modern life, ranging from the generation of electricity to the powering
of automobiles, require the consumption of energy.

[0003]The desired attributes of any fuel or energy source include low
cost, plentiful supply, renewability, safety, and environmental
compatibility. Hydrogen is currently the best prospect for these desired
attributes and offers the potential to greatly reduce dependence on
conventional fossil fuels. Hydrogen is the most prevalent element in the
universe and, if realized, offers an inexhaustible fuel source to meet
today's increasing energy demands.

[0004]In addition to being plentiful and widely available, hydrogen is
also a clean fuel source. Combustion of hydrogen produces water as a
by-product. Utilization of hydrogen as a fuel source thus avoids the
unwanted generation of the carbon and nitrogen-based greenhouse gases
that are responsible for global warming as well as the unwanted
production of soot and other carbon-based pollutants in industrial
manufacturing. Hydrogen truly is a green energy source. The use of
hydrogen as an energy source has been limited by the large energy
consumption for its production from water, as illustrated in Equation
(i).

2H2O→2H2+O2 (i)

[0005]As a general matter, prior art electrolyzers consume 4.0 kWh per
cubic meter of hydrogen gas produced. Prior art electrolysis apparatus
and methods utilize a voltage of 1.6-2.0 V and current strength of dozens
and hundreds of amperes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006]Applicant's invention comprises an engine system comprising an
electrolysis apparatus interconnected to an internal combustion engine.
The electrolysis apparatus cleaves water into a mixture of hydrogen gas
and oxygen gas. The mixture of hydrogen gas and oxygen gas is input into,
and fuels, the internal combustion engine.

[0007]Applicant's electrolysis apparatus comprises an enclosure comprising
a bottom, a plurality of walls attached to said bottom and having distal
ends extending upwardly therefrom, and a top assembly removeably attached
to each of the distal ends of said plurality of walls, wherein said
bottom, plurality of walls, and top define an enclosed space; a first
electrode disposed within said enclosed space; a second electrode
disposed within said enclosed space; at least one electromagnetic energy
radiator disposed within said enclosed space; an oscillator disposed
external to said enclosure, wherein said oscillator is interconnected to
said electromagnetic energy radiator; and a gas outlet in communication
with and extending outwardly from said enclosure.

[0008]Applicant's internal combustion engine comprises one or more
combustion chambers; one or more pistons, wherein each of said one or
more pistons is moveably disposed in a different one of said one or more
combustion chambers; a crankshaft operatively coupled to each of said one
or more pistons; a fuel intake manifold interconnected with said of said
plurality of combustion cylinders; a fuel input assembly interconnected
with said fuel intake manifold; a conduit interconnecting said gas outlet
and said fuel input assembly; a first electrical power system operatively
coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said first electrical power system is
interconnected with said oscillator; a second electrical power system
operatively coupled to said crankshaft, wherein said second electrical
power system is interconnected with said first electrode such that said
first electrode comprises a cathode, and wherein said second electrical
power system is interconnected with said second electrode such that said
second electrode comprises an anode.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009]The invention will be better understood from a reading of the
following detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings in
which like reference designators are used to designate like elements, and
in which:

[0010]FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of Applicant's
electrolysis apparatus, wherein the top assembly is shown removed from a
five-sided housing;

[0011]FIG. 1B is a perspective view of a second embodiment of Applicant's
electrolysis apparatus which comprises a sealing gasket disposed between
the top assembly and the housing;

[0012]FIG. 1c is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 2 showing
the top assembly removeably attached to the housing to form an enclosure
defining an enclosed space;

[0013]FIG. 2A is a top view of a third embodiment of Applicant's
electrolysis apparatus, wherein the top assembly has been removed;

[0014]FIG. 2B is a top view showing a portion of the apparatus of FIG. 2A;

[0015]FIG. 3 is a top view of one embodiment of Applicant's
electromagnetic energy radiator;

[0016]FIG. 4 is a top view of a fourth embodiment of Applicant's
electrolysis apparatus, wherein the top assembly has been removed;

[0017]FIG. 5 is a top view of a fifth embodiment of Applicant's
electrolysis apparatus, wherein the top assembly has been removed;

[0018]FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a first embodiment of Applicant's
vehicle comprising Applicant's electrolysis apparatus and an internal
combustion engine;

[0019]FIG. 6B is a block diagram showing certain of the elements of
Applicant's internal combustion engine, wherein that engine is
interconnected with Applicant's electrolysis apparatus;

[0020]FIG. 7A is a cross-sectional view of a first embodiment of
Applicant's fuel input assembly;

[0022]FIG. 7c shows a throttle valve disposed in Applicant's fuel input
assembly, wherein the valve is shown in an open configuration;

[0023]FIG. 7D is a cross-sectional view of a second embodiment of
Applicant's fuel input assembly;

[0024]FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a third embodiment of
Applicant's fuel input assembly;

[0025]FIG. 9A is a block diagram showing certain elements of a first
embodiment of the electrical system disposed in Applicant's vehicle;

[0026]FIG. 9B is a block diagram showing certain elements of a second
embodiment of the electrical system disposed in Applicant's vehicle;

[0027]FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of Applicant's
vehicle.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028]This invention is described in preferred embodiments in the
following description with reference to the Figures, in which like
numbers represent the same or similar elements. Reference throughout this
specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language
means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described
in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment
of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one
embodiment," "in an embodiment," and similar language throughout this
specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same
embodiment.

[0029]The described features, structures, or characteristics of the
invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more
embodiments. In the following description, numerous specific details are
recited to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the
invention. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize, however, that
the invention may be practiced without one or more of the specific
details, or with other methods, components, materials, and so forth. In
other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not
shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of the invention.

[0030]The disclosure of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/598,941, filed
Nov. 13, 2006, is incorporated in its entirety herein by reference.
Referring now to FIG. 1A, Applicant's electrolysis apparatus 100
comprises housing 110 in combination with top assembly 140. Housing 110
comprises water input port 130 and float valve assembly 180 (FIG. 1c). A
plurality of electrodes 120 are disposed within housing 110. Water inlet
port 130 is interconnected with a source of water, and is positioned such
that each of the plurality of electrodes 120 remain covered by water.

[0031]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 1A, plurality of electrodes
120 comprises 8 electrodes. In other embodiments, plurality of electrodes
120 comprises fewer than 8 electrodes. In still other embodiments,
plurality of electrodes 120 comprises more than 8 electrodes.

[0032]Top assembly 140 comprises gas outlet 150. The mixture of hydrogen
gas and oxygen gas formed by the electrolysis of water within apparatus
100 flows outwardly through gas outlet 150. In certain embodiments, one
or more gas conduits interconnect gas outlet 150 and one or more gas
inlet portions of an internal combustion engine.

[0033]Referring now to FIG. 1B, top assembly 140 can be releasably
attached to housing 110 to form a water-tight seal. In certain
embodiments, a sealing gasket 160 is disposed between top edges 112, 114,
116, and 118, of housing 110 and bottom edges 142, 144, 146, and 148, of
top assembly 140.

[0035]In certain embodiments, bottom 170, and walls 172, 174, 176, 178,
are formed from one or more rigid materials selected from the group
consisting of wood, ceramic, metal, glass, and combinations thereof. In
certain embodiments, bottom 170, and walls 172, 174, 176, 178, are formed
from one or more polymeric materials such as and without limitation
polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polycarbonate,
polyetheretherketone, mixtures thereof, and the like.

[0036]In the illustrated embodiment of FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 1C, apparatus 100
comprises four walls interconnecting the bottom and top assembly. As a
general matter, Applicant's apparatus 100 comprises 3 or more walls
interconnecting a bottom and a top to define an enclosed space. In
certain embodiments, that enclosed space comprises a volume of 1 cubic
foot. In other embodiments, that enclosed space comprises a volume less
than 1 cubic foot. In still other embodiments, that enclosed space
comprises a volume greater than 1 cubic foot.

[0038]In embodiments wherein Applicant's apparatus 100 provides fuel for
an internal combustion engine disposed in a wheeled vehicle, length 102
is between about 12 inches and about 16 inches, width 104 is between
about 12 inches and about 16 inches, and height 108 is between about 12
inches and about 16 inches. In these embodiments, housing 110 comprises
length 102, width 104, and height 106, wherein height 106 is between
about 8 inches and about 12 inches.

[0039]The top of water input port 130 is disposed a distance 107 from
bottom 170. Float valve assembly 180 maintains the level of water
disposed within apparatus 100 at a depth equal to distance 107 from the
bottom 170. In certain embodiments, distance 107 is [(0.9)×(height
106)]. For example, in certain embodiments height 106 is about 8 inches
and distance 107 is about 7 inches.

[0041]In certain embodiments, one or more of the plurality of electrodes
comprises Nickel (II) hydroxide. In certain embodiments, one or more of
the plurality of electrodes comprises Nickel (III) oxide-hydroxide.

[0042]Applicant's apparatus 100 further comprises first power source 210.
In certain embodiments, first power source 210 provides DC power having a
voltage VDC between about 8 volts and about 48 volts to at least one
anode electrode and to at least one cathode electrode. In certain
embodiments, first power source 210 provides 36 VDC power to at
least one anode electrode and to at least one cathode electrode.

[0043]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A, power conduit 212
interconnects first power source 210 with electrode 221 such that
electrode 221 comprises a cathode. Power conduit 214 interconnects first
power source 210 with electrode 236 such that electrode 236 comprises an
anode.

[0044]As a general matter, Applicant's electrolysis apparatus 100
comprises (N) electromagnetic energy radiators, wherein (N) is greater
than or equal to 1 and less than or equal to 12, and wherein in operation
each of those (N) electromagnetic energy radiators emits electromagnetic
energy comprising a different frequency. In the illustrated embodiment of
FIG. 2A, Applicant's electrolysis apparatus 100 comprises six
electromagnetic energy radiators, namely electromagnetic energy radiators
241, 242, 243, 244, 245, and 246.

[0045]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A, electromagnetic energy
radiators 241, 242, and 243, are disposed adjacent to wall 172. In the
illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A, electromagnetic energy radiators 244,
245, and 246, are disposed adjacent to wall 176. In other embodiments,
one or more electromagnetic energy radiators each comprise a portion of
one or more of the plurality of walls of apparatus 100. For example, in
certain embodiments wherein one or more of walls 172, 174, 176, and/or
178, are formed from one or more non-electrically-conducting materials,
one or more electromagnetic radiators are disposed in wall 172, and/or
wall 174, and/or wall 176, and/or wall 178.

[0046]In certain embodiments, one or more of Applicant's (N)
electromagnetic energy radiators are formed from a metal selected from
the group consisting of iron, copper, zinc, nickel, lead, tin, and
combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, one or more of Applicant's
(N) electromagnetic energy radiators comprise zinc.

[0047]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A, electromagnetic energy
radiator 241 is interconnected with oscillator 251, wherein oscillator
251 provides first energy comprising a first frequency and a first power
level. In certain embodiments, oscillator 251 further comprises a power
amplifier portion. In certain embodiments, the first power level is
between about 1 watt and about 1000 watts. In certain embodiments, the
first power level is about 600 watts.

[0048]Electromagnetic energy radiator 242 is interconnected with
oscillator 252, wherein oscillator 252 provides second energy comprising
a second frequency and a second power level. In certain embodiments,
oscillator 252 further comprises a power amplifier portion. In certain
embodiments, the second power level is between about 1 watt and about
1000 watts. In certain embodiments, the second power level is about 600
watts.

[0049]Electromagnetic energy radiator 243 is interconnected with
oscillator 253, wherein oscillator 253 provides third energy comprising a
third frequency and a third power level. In certain embodiments,
oscillator 253 further comprises a power amplifier portion. In certain
embodiments, the third power level is between about 1 watt and about 1000
watts. In certain embodiments, the third power level is about 600 watts.

[0050]Electromagnetic energy radiator 244 is interconnected with
oscillator 254, wherein oscillator 254 provides fourth energy comprising
a fourth frequency and a fourth power level. In certain embodiments,
oscillator 254 further comprises a power amplifier portion. In certain
embodiments, the fourth power level is between about 1 watt and about
1000 watts. In certain embodiments, the fourth power level is about 600
watts.

[0051]Electromagnetic energy radiator 245 is interconnected with
oscillator 255, wherein oscillator 255 provides fifth energy comprising a
fifth frequency and a fifth power level. In certain embodiments,
oscillator 255 further comprises a power amplifier portion. In certain
embodiments, the fifth power level is between about 1 watt and about 1000
watts. In certain embodiments, the fifth power level is about 600 watts.

[0052]Electromagnetic energy radiator 246 is interconnected with
oscillator 256, wherein oscillator 256 provides sixth energy comprising a
sixth frequency and a sixth power level. In certain embodiments,
oscillator 256 further comprises a power amplifier portion. In certain
embodiments, the sixth power level is between about 1 watt and about 1000
watts. In certain embodiments, the sixth power level is about 600 watts.

[0053]In certain embodiments, oscillators 251, 252, 253, 254, 255, and
256, comprise a single device, in optional combination with a power
amplifier, wherein that single device is capable of providing a plurality
of outputs each comprising a different frequency, wherein each of those
plurality of outputs comprises substantially the same power level.

[0054]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 2A, oscillators 251, 252, 253,
254, 255, and 256, receive power from second electrical source via power
conduits 215 and 217. In certain embodiments, second power source 213
provides DC power having a voltage VDC between about 8 volts and
about 48 volts to one or more oscillators, wherein those one or more
oscillators are each interconnected to a different electromagnetic energy
radiator disposed within apparatus 100. In certain embodiments, second
power source 213 provides 12 VDC power to one or more oscillators,
wherein those one or more oscillators are each interconnected to a
different electromagnetic energy radiator disposed within apparatus 100.

[0055]In certain embodiments, the first power level, second power level,
third power level, fourth power level, fifth power level, and sixth power
level, are substantially the same. By "substantially the same," Applicant
means within about plus or minus ten percent. In certain embodiments, the
first power level, second power level, third power level, fourth power
level, fifth power level, and sixth power level, are not substantially
the same.

[0057]Referring now to FIG. 2B, each electrode 221, 222, 223, 224, 227,
228, 229, 230, 233, 234, 235, and 236, comprises a length 206 and width
202. In certain embodiments, length 206 is between about 6 inches and
about 8 inches. As a general matter, length 206 is about
[(0.5)×(width 104)]. In certain embodiments, width 202 is between
about 0.1 inches and about 0.3 inches. Electrodes 221, 222, 223, 224,
227, 228, 229, 230, 233, 234, 235, and 236, comprise a height that is
less than or equal to distance 107 (FIG. 1c).

[0058]Each electrode 221, 222, 223, 224, 227, 228, 229, 230, 233, 234,
235, and 236, is separated from the one or two adjacent electrodes by a
gap 204. In certain embodiments, gap 204 is between about 0.2 and about
0.6 inches. As a general matter, the gap 204 is greater than or equal to
width 202 and less than or equal to [2×width 202].

[0061]In certain embodiments, gap 208a and gap 208b are substantially the
same. In other embodiments, gap 208a and gap 208b are not substantially
the same.

[0062]Referring now to FIG. 3, electromagnetic energy radiator 241
comprises a central V-shaped portion formed from members 330 and 340,
wherein end portion 332 of member 330 is attached to end portion 342 of
member 340, such that members 330 and 340 define a dihedral angle Φ,
wherein angle Φ is between about 30 degrees and about 45 degrees.

[0063]Member 310 is attached to end portion 334 of member 330, and extends
outwardly therefrom. Member 320 is attached to end portion 344 of member
340, and extends outwardly therefrom. Member 310 comprises a length 315,
wherein length 315 is between about 1 inches and about 5 inches. Member
320 comprises a length 325, wherein length 325 is between about 1 inches
and about 5 inches.

[0064]In certain embodiments, length 315 is about [(2×width 202)+gap
204]. In certain embodiments, length 325 is about [(2×width
202)+gap 204]. In certain embodiments, length 315 and length 325 are
substantially the same. In other embodiments, length 315 and length 325
are not substantially the same.

[0065]The afore-described V-shaped portion comprising members 330 and 340
comprises length 360, wherein length 360 is between about 0.5 inches and
about 2 inches. In certain embodiments, length 360 is about
[0.5×length 315].

[0066]Electromagnetic energy radiator 241 comprises a width 370. In
certain embodiments, width 370 is between about 1 inches and about 3
inches. In certain embodiments, width 370 is about 0.5 times length 315.

[0068]In certain embodiments, the plurality of electrodes are separated
from adjacent electrodes by a plurality of electrically insulating
spacers. For example and referring now to FIG. 4, electrodes 221 and 222
are separated by electrically-insulating spacers 401 and 402. Electrodes
222 and 223 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers 403 and 404.
Electrodes 223 and 224 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers
405 and 406. Electrodes 224 and 225 are separated by
electrically-insulating spacers 407 and 408. Electrodes 225 and 226 are
separated by electrically-insulating spacers 409 and 410. Electrodes 226
and 227 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers 411 and 412.
Electrodes 227 and 228 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers
413 and 414. Electrodes 228 and 229 are separated by
electrically-insulating spacers 415 and 416. Electrodes 229 and 230 are
separated by electrically-insulating spacers 417 and 418. Electrodes 230
and 231 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers 419 and 420.
Electrodes 231 and 232 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers
421 and 422. Electrodes 232 and 233 are separated by
electrically-insulating spacers 423 and 424. Electrodes 233 and 234 are
separated by electrically-insulating spacers 425 and 426. Electrodes 234
and 235 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers 427 and 428.
Electrodes 235 and 236 are separated by electrically-insulating spacers
429 and 430.

[0070]Referring now to FIG. 5, electrode 221 is interconnected with first
power source 210 by power conduit 212 such that electrode 221 comprises a
cathode. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, power conduit 510
interconnects electrodes 221, 223, 225, 227, 229, 231, 233, and 235, such
that electrodes 221, 223, 225, 227, 229, 231, 233, and 235, each comprise
a cathode.

[0071]Electrode 236 is interconnected with first power source 210 by power
conduit 214 such that electrode 236 comprises an anode. In the
illustrated embodiment of FIG. 5, power conduit 520 interconnects
electrodes 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, 234, and 236, such that
electrodes 222, 224, 226, 228, 230, 232, 234, and 236, each comprise an
anode.

[0072]Applicant's invention further comprises a wheeled-vehicle powered,
in whole or in part, by an internal combustion engine which operates
using the mixture of combustible gases produced by Applicant's
electrolyzer apparatus 100. Referring now to FIG. 6A, vehicle 600
comprises electrolyzer apparatus 100 in combination with internal
combustion engine 620. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6A, vehicle
600 comprises a passenger car comprising 4 wheels. In other embodiments,
vehicle 600 comprises a van. In other embodiments, vehicle 600 comprises
a truck. In other embodiments, vehicle 600 comprises a bus. In other
embodiments, vehicle 600 comprises a motorcycle. In other embodiments,
vehicle 600 comprises fewer than 4 wheels. In other embodiments, vehicle
600 comprises more than 4 wheels.

[0073]Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B, Applicant's vehicle 600 comprises
Applicant's electrolyzer apparatus 100, internal combustion engine 620,
and transmission 660. In certain embodiments, internal combustion engine
620 is powered only using the mixture of combustible gases produced by
electrolyzer 100. In other embodiments, internal combustion engine 620
comprises a hybrid engine powered using the mixture of combustible gases
produced by electrolyzer 100 in combination with a mixture of hydrocarbon
fuels, wherein those hydrocarbon fuels are selected from the group
consisting of methane, propane, gasoline, diesel fuel, bio-diesel fuel,
and combinations thereof. In certain embodiments, internal combustion
engine 620 comprises a gas turbine engine, a rotary engine, a two stroke
engine, a four stroke engine, or a six stroke engine.

[0075]In certain embodiments, Applicant's vehicle 1000 is started using
electric motor 1010. As the quantity of combustible gases produced by
electrolyzer 100 increases, Applicant's vehicle 1000 is powered using
both the mixture of combustible gases produced by electrolyzer 100 in
combination with electric motor 1010.

[0076]As those skilled in the art will appreciate, Applicant's vehicle 600
and/or vehicle 1000 may comprise one or more additional elements and
systems not shown in FIGS. 6A and 10, respectively. Such additional
systems include, without limitation, anti-lock braking systems, pollution
control systems, entertainment systems, navigational systems, and the
like.

[0077]Referring now to FIG. 6B, in certain embodiments Applicant's
internal combustion engine 620 comprises a plurality of combustion
cylinders 630, wherein each of those cylinders comprises a piston 632
moveably disposed therein, one or more fuel intake valves 636, and one or
more exhaust valves 638. In a multi-cylinder engine, the cylinders
usually are arranged in one of three ways: inline, "V," or flat (also
known as horizontally opposed or boxer).

[0078]As those skilled in the art will appreciate, fuel is input into each
cylinder 630 via the one or more fuel intake valves 636, that fuel is
ignited within the cylinder thereby causing piston assembly 632 to move
upwardly and downwardly, wherein each piston assembly is operatively
coupled to crankshaft 650. Combustion products resulting from the
ignition of the fuel, i.e. "exhaust," is removed from each cylinder via
the one or more exhaust valves 638.

[0080]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6B, output port 150 of
electrolyzer 100 is in communication with fuel input assembly 605 via
fuel conduit 610. In certain embodiments, fuel conduit 610 is formed from
one or more metals, one or more elastomers, one or more rigid plastics,
and combinations thereof. Engine 620 comprises a conventional fuel
distribution system which includes an fuel intake manifold, wherein that
fuel distribution system provides a mixture of combustible gases from
fuel input assembly 605 to each of the one or more cylinders 630 via the
one or more fuel intake valves 636 disposed in those one or more
cylinders.

[0081]In certain embodiments, each of the plurality of cylinders 630
further comprises one or more spark plugs 634, wherein those one or more
spark plugs 634 provide a timed electrical discharge, wherein that timed
electrical discharge ignites a mixture of combustible gases disposed in
the cylinder, wherein that mixture of combustible gases are selected from
the group consisting of hydrogen at a level exceeding ambient atmospheric
levels, oxygen at a level exceeding ambient atmospheric levels, and
optionally one or more hydrocarbons at a level exceeding ambient
atmospheric levels. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, oxygen
is present at about 20.95 volume percent in the ambient atmosphere,
hydrogen is present at about 0.00005 volume percent in the ambient
atmosphere, and methane is present at about 0.00017 volume percent in the
ambient atmosphere. By "at a level exceeding ambient atmospheric levels,"
Applicant means, for oxygen, at a level of at least 1.5 times the ambient
atmospheric level of oxygen described hereinabove. By "at a level
exceeding ambient atmospheric levels," Applicant means, for hydrogen, at
a level of at least ten thousand times the ambient atmospheric level of
hydrogen described methane, at a level of at least ten thousand times the
ambient atmospheric level of methane described hereinabove.

[0082]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6B, the one or more spark
plugs 634 are interconnected with a vehicle electrical system 640. In
certain embodiments, vehicle electrical system 640 comprises a generator
operatively coupled to crankshaft 650, wherein that generator produces DC
power comprising a first voltage. In certain embodiments, that first
voltage is selected from the group consisting of about 12 volts, about 24
volts, about 36 volts, and about 48 volts. In certain embodiments,
vehicle electrical system 640 comprises an alternator operatively coupled
to crankshaft 650, wherein that alternator produces DC power comprising a
first voltage. In certain embodiments, that first voltage is selected
from the group consisting of about 12 volts, about 24 volts, about 36
volts, and about 48 volts. In certain embodiments, vehicle electrical
system 640 comprises one or more batteries capable of storing electrical
energy comprising the first voltage. In certain embodiments, vehicle
electrical system 640 further comprises one or more voltage regulators.

[0083]In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 6B, engine 620 further
comprises vehicle electrical system 670. In certain embodiments, vehicle
electrical system 670 comprises a generator operatively coupled to
crankshaft 650, wherein that generator produces DC power comprising a
second voltage, wherein the second voltage differs from the first
voltage. In certain embodiments, that second voltage is selected from the
group consisting of about 12 volts, about 24 volts, about 36 volts, and
about 48 volts. In certain embodiments, vehicle electrical system 670
comprises an alternator operatively coupled to crankshaft 650, wherein
that alternator produces DC power comprising a second voltage, wherein
the second voltage differs from the first voltage. In certain
embodiments, that second voltage is selected from the group consisting of
about 12 volts, about 24 volts, about 36 volts, and about 48 volts. In
certain embodiments, vehicle electrical system 670 comprises one or more
batteries capable of storing electrical energy comprising the first
voltage. In certain embodiments, vehicle electrical system 670 further
comprises one or more voltage regulators.

[0085]In certain embodiments, housing 705 comprises a member formed from
one or more metals, wherein that member is formed to comprise conduits
710 and 730 disposed therein. In certain embodiments, fuel input assembly
comprises (N) combustible gas input conduits, (N) valves 720, and (N)
combustible gas output conduits 730, wherein the (i)th valve 720
interconnects the (i)th combustible gas fuel input conduit and the (i)th
combustible gas output conduit, wherein (i)th greater than or equal to 1
and less than or equal to (N). In certain embodiments, (N) is 1. In
certain embodiments, (N) is 2. In certain embodiments, (N) is 4. In
certain embodiments, (N) is greater than 4.

[0086]Referring now to FIGS. 7B and 7C, in certain embodiments each valve
720 comprises a throttle valve. In certain embodiments, fuel input
assembly 700 further comprises a throttle position sensor 725 disposed on
throttle valve 720.

[0087]FIG. 7B shows throttle valve 720 in a closed orientation, wherein
the mixture of combustible gases produced by electrolyzer 100 cannot be
introduced into engine 620 via fuel input assembly 700. FIG. 7c shows
throttle valve 720 in a fully open orientation, wherein a maximum amount
of the mixture of combustible gases produced by electrolyzer 100 can be
introduced into engine 620 via fuel input assembly 700. As those skilled
in the art will appreciate, throttle valve 720 can be adjusted to
comprise any orientation intermediate between the orientation of FIG. 7B
and the orientation of FIG. 7c, thereby adjusting the amount of the
mixture of combustible gases produced by electrolyzer 100 introduced into
engine 620 via fuel input assembly 700.

[0088]Referring now to FIG. 7D, in certain embodiments, fuel input
assembly 700 further comprises an acetylene gas generator 740, wherein
that acetylene generator provides acetylene gas to the intake manifold
portion 622 of internal combustion engine 620. In embodiments, when
starting Applicant's internal combustion engine utilizing a mixture of
combustible gases comprising oxygen and hydrogen at levels in excess of
ambient atmospheric levels, but not a mixture of hydrocarbon gases,
electrical systems 640 and 670 are energized, such that electrical system
670 comprises power source 210, and electrical system 640 comprises power
source 213 for electrolyzer 100. Electrolyzer 100 then begins to generate
a combustible mixture of oxygen and hydrogen.

[0089]At the same time, valve 790 is caused to open such that water 775
from water reservoir 770 passes through conduit 780, valve 790, and
conduit 785, and onto calcium carbide 750. The water reacts with the
calcium carbide to generate acetylene gas. Valve 760 is then opened
thereby allowing acetylene gas to pass from acetylene gas generator 740
through conduit 715, through valve 760, through conduit 735, and into
fuel intake manifold 622. In these embodiments, Applicant's internal
combustion engine 620 is started by the ignition of acetylene gas. As the
quantity of combustible gases produced by electrolyzer 100 increases,
valve 790 closes until the engine is operating exclusively using the
mixture of combustible gases produced in electrolyzer 100.

[0090]In certain embodiments, Applicant's internal combustion engine 620
comprises a hybrid engine powered using the mixture of combustible gases
produced by electrolyzer 100 in combination with a mixture of hydrocarbon
fuels. In these embodiments, Applicant's hybrid engine is started using a
mixture of hydrocarbon fuels. As the quantity of combustible gases
produced by electrolyzer 100 increases, Applicant's engine is operated
using both the mixture of combustible gases produced by electrolyzer 100
in combination with a mixture of hydrocarbon fuels.

[0094]Hydrocarbon fuel 860 is disposed in float chamber 865. Float valve
852 in combination with float arm 854 and float 856 regulates the amount
of hydrocarbon fuel 860 in float chamber 865. A vacuum produced by engine
620 pulls ambient air through air cleaner 830 and into air conduit 805.
As ambient air is pulled through venturi section 840 of air conduit 805,
hydrocarbon fuel 860 is injected through jet 858 into that air stream.

[0095]Throttle valve 820 regulates the amount of aerosolized hydrocarbon
fuel passing into fuel mixing chamber 880. Throttle position sensor 825
is disposed on throttle valve 820. In certain embodiments, throttle
position sensor 825 is mounted on a rotatable member attached to throttle
valve 820, wherein that rotatable member sets the position of throttle
valve 820 within conduit 805.

[0096]In certain embodiments, throttle valve 720 and throttle valve 820
are operatively coupled, such that both throttle valves open and close in
unison. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, Applicant's vehicle
600/1000 comprises an accelerator. In certain embodiments, that
accelerator comprises an accelerator pedal that is manually operated by
the vehicle operator. When the accelerator pedal is depressed, throttle
valve 720 opens to allow more combustible gas produced by electrolyzer
100 into the fuel intake manifold disposed in engine 620, and throttle
valve 820 opens to allow more hydrocarbon fuel into the fuel intake
manifold disposed in engine 620.

[0097]Embodiments of Applicant's internal combustion engine 620, wherein
that engine is powered only by the mixture of combustible gases produced
by electrolyzer 100 utilize the control system illustrated in FIG. 9A. In
the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9A, vehicle electrical system 670
produces 36 volt DC power, and vehicle electrical system 670 comprises
power source 210, wherein vehicle electrical system 670 is interconnected
with electrolyzer 100 via power conduits 212 and 214. Vehicle electrical
system 670 is interconnected with field control regulator 910 by
communication link 913. Field control regulator 910 receives power from
vehicle electrical system 640 via power conduits 915 and 917. The
oscillator elements of Applicant's electrolysis apparatus 100 receive
power from electrical system 640 via power conduits 215 and 217.

[0098]Electronic Control Module 920 needs to determine, inter alia, the
position of throttle position sensor 725. As those skilled in the art
will appreciate, Electronic Control Module 920 comprises a computing
device that regulates the amount of fuel released into the intake
manifold of engine 620.

[0099]Throttle position sensor 725 communicates with Electronic Control
Module 920, via field control regulator 910, using communication links
931a/931b, 933a/933b, and 935a/935b. Throttle position sensor 725 is
mounted on, or operatively coupled to, throttle valve 720, and converts
the angle of throttle valve 720 into an electrical signal. In certain
embodiments, throttle valve sensor 725 comprises a wiper arm connected to
a rotatable member which rotates throttle valve 720. As the rotatable
member moves, the wiper arm also moves. The wiper arm is connected to a
resistor. As the wiper arm moves on the resistor, the signal voltage
output changes. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9A, five volts are
supplied to throttle position sensor 725 via link 931a/931b. A throttle
position sensor 725 voltage signal is output on link 933a/933b. Link
935a/935b comprises a ground wire.

[0100]Embodiments of Applicant's internal combustion engine 620, wherein
that engine comprises fuel hybrid engine powered both by the mixture of
combustible gases produced by electrolyzer 100, and using hydrocarbon
fuels, utilize the control system illustrated in FIG. 9B. In the
illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9B, vehicle electrical system 670 produces
36 volt DC power, wherein vehicle electrical system 670 comprises power
source 210, and wherein vehicle electrical system 670 is interconnected
with electrolyzer 100 via power conduits 212 and 214.

[0101]Vehicle electrical system 670 is interconnected with field control
regulator 910 by communication link 913. Field control regulator 910
receives power from vehicle electrical system 640 via power conduits 915
and 917. The oscillator elements of Applicant's electrolysis apparatus
receives power from electrical system 640 via power conduits 215 and 217.

[0102]Electronic Control Module 920 needs to determine, inter alia, the
position of throttle valve 720 and throttle valve 820. As those skilled
in the art will appreciate, Electronic Control Module 920 comprises a
computing device that regulates the amount of fuel released into the
intake manifold of engine 620.

[0103]Throttle position sensor 725 communicates with Electronic Control
Module 920, via field control regulator 910, as described hereinabove.
Throttle position sensor 825 communicates with Electronic Control Module
920, via field control regulator 910, using communication links
941a/941b, 943a/943b, and 945a/945b. Throttle position sensor 825 is
mounted on, or operatively coupled to, throttle valve 820, and converts
the angle of throttle valve 820 into an electrical signal. In certain
embodiments, throttle valve sensor 825 comprises a wiper arm connected to
a rotatable member which rotates throttle valve 820. As the rotatable
member rotates, the wiper arm also moves. The wiper arm is connected to a
resistor. As the wiper arm moves on the resistor, the signal voltage
output changes. In the illustrated embodiment of FIG. 9B, five volts are
supplied to throttle position sensor 825 via link 941a/941b. The throttle
position sensor 825 voltage signal is output on link 943a/943b. Link
945a/945b comprises a ground wire.

[0104]While the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been
illustrated in detail, it should be apparent that modifications and
adaptations to those embodiments may occur to one skilled in the art
without departing from the scope of the present invention as set forth in
the following claims.